World's highest-earning couples named

GISELE Bundchen and Tom Brady have been named the world's highest-earning couple.

The supermodel and her NFL player husband earned a staggering $US76 million (AUD72.6 million, approximately) between them during the period May 2010-2011, with the Brazilian beauty's fashion career, endorsements and business deals bringing in a $US45 (AUD 43) million share of their joint income.

According to Forbes magazine, Beyonce Knowles and Jay-Z earned just $4 million less in the same period, with the 'Run the World (Girls)' hitmaker bringing in $35 million from her record sales and endorsement deals and her spouse generating $37 million through his contract with Live Nation, a stake in the New Jersey Nets, his 40/40 Club chain and ad firm Translation.

Placed third were Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, who earned $50 million after the actor brought in $20 million and his partner - with who he raises six children - earning the additional $30 million.

David and Victoria Beckham were placed fourth in the list with combined earnings of $45 million - though $40 million of the total was earned by the soccer star.

'Twilight Saga' co-stars and real-life couple Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart rounded off the top five, contributing equally to their $40 million fortune.